The Industrial Education Foundation board of directors will host a reception at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at the Industrial High School Auditorium in Vanderbilt as part of its official kickoff to begin this year's annual fund drive.

The foundation is inviting anyone wanting more information about the Industrial Education Foundation or those interested in learning how to support the efforts of Industrial Independent School District to attend.

The foundation is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization created for the benefit of the school district and provides funding not allocated by tax dollars.

In order to accept such donations, many school districts across Texas have created nonprofit entities such as the IEF so that donors can take advantage of existing tax laws.

"The Industrial Education Foundation awarded grants in excess of $30,000 earlier this year to 31 teachers' projects in the school district," said president Dan Martino.

To find out more about IEF or to inquire about becoming an investor, contact the Industrial ISD administration office at 361-284-3226, option 6, or one of the board members directly.